JAMES DEGALE accepts he is taking a risk by agreeing to fight champion Paul Smith for the British super-middleweight title.

The rivals will meet at the Liverpool Echo Arena on December 11 as part of an event Frank Warren is staging to celebrate his 30th anniversary as a promoter.

Topping the bill will be WBO interim light-heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly, from South Wales, against an as-yet unnamed opponent, but the first real test of DeGale’s professional career will also be eagerly awaited.

The encounter represents a significant step up in class for the Olympic gold medalist, who has yet to be taken beyond five rounds in his eight fights.

In contrast Smith has a solitary defeat in 30 contests and seized the British title from fellow Liverpudlian Tony Quigley in October last year.

“It’s a big step up in class because Paul Smith is the best super-middleweight in Britain,” DeGale said.

“I used to watch him when we were in the England camp and I’ve seen him grow during his seven years as a pro.

“Of course it’s a risky fight at this stage in my career but I have confidence in myself and my ability. I think I can win.

“I’ve got to go into the lion’s den and prove I’m the best super-middleweight in the country already.

“I’ve been calling him out and I’ve wanted to fight for the British title, so now here’s my chance.”

Also on the bill will be Frankie Gavin, Billy Joe Saunders, Matthew Macklin, Kell Brook and Tony Bellew.